Eleftheroudakis bookshops are a focal point for book lovers in Athens, with stores in central Athens, the international airport, many neighborhoods and also other cities of Greece. Ultra modern and with a huge selection of books, on every subject imaginable, from cooking to psychology, and a separate section with English language literature, guidebooks and maps. Don’t miss the gift shop with original objects from emerging artists at the newly inaugurated central store on Panepistimiou 11. www.books.gr

Papasotiriou bookshops are favorites for those interested in art, photography, architecture, science, offering a wide selection of books on these subjects, but also contemporary fiction and a special department with the latest editions in English language books. Elegant and up to date, these bookshops with many sales points, from the airport to cities all over Greece, combine tradition with contemporary style and all round information. www.papasotiriou.gr

“Evripidis in the Gallery” A. Papandreou 11, Chalandri, is situated on four floors in a building of 850 sq mt. designed to offer  a modern but cozy environment, similar to a library. A fully organized international bookstore, books on art, travel guides and maps, economy and management, coffee table books  and a special department for children. The friendly cafe is an inviting  quiet corner to enjoy coffee or drinks with free WIFI connection. Exhibitions, literary and musical evenings, and reading clubs  are organized often in the premises. www.evripidis.gr

Infognomon bookstore  on Filellinon 14, very near Syntagma, is the  place to purchase travel guides, maps and books about Greece, from literature to cooking. The selection of original postcards and souvenirs with historical interest are perfect for small gifts to take home. A special selection has been made with fiction based in Greece by foreign authors, offering a unique experience of knowing more about the country and the people and also translations of contemporary and classic Greek authors. Don’t miss the excellent photograph albums with views from the most beautiful places all over the country. www.infognomon.gr

Libro is a small, boutique bookshop in Kolonaki, Patriarchou Ioakim 8, with a devoted clientele. You can find selected books in English, art and coffee table books  and a wide range of ideas for small gifts, like agendas, notebooks, leather bound miniature books, vintage diaries, calendars, designer pocket notebooks and stationary. www.libro.gr  

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Occhi Concept Store on Sarri 28, in the down town area of Psyrri specializes in fashion by young independent designers from Greece and all over Europe. Euangelia’s unique dresses with their minimal style have  Renaissance or post industrial influence, whilst Futuristic Silence stands out for her forms and structures which shape the body. Meet the Cat’s accessories emphasize bright colors, and this year she proposes all time classics like circles, squares and lozenge shapes. Daniela Pais from Portugal, Reality Studio from Berlin and Vlieger & Vandam from Holland are also all time favorites for Athenian fashionistas. www.occhi.biz tel. 210 3213298

Heel Athens Lab is a fashion company which emphasizes artistic originality, avoiding easy solutions and opting for quality and creativity. All the clothes are designed and produced in Greece, and are unique in their approach to fashion, which is used as an expressive medium for ideas about life and nature, continuous source of inspiration for the designs. The uniqueness and eccentricity of each piece results in small works of art which come to life by wearing them. Find a store nearest to you on www.heelshop.gr tel. 210 9579735

Whitebox is popular with  fashion conscious Athenian shoppers, who know they will always find something different and original in this sunny loft perched on the 6th floor of 26, Praxitelous street, 5 minutes from Syntagma, Panepistimiou or Monastiraki metro stations. Clothes, fashion accessories, handbags, belts, different styles of jewelry created by inspired emerging designers. From vintage to funky, and from elegant to casual, all the collections stand out for their unique approach to fashion, making your shopping experience enjoyable and practical. Whitebox is a collective of independent designers and artists, promoting handmade design and unique art and providing exhibition space for new designers  showcasing their work. www.whiteboxcreatives.com facebook fan page Whitebox    tel. 210 3232343

Punchi Pupunchi is a fun boutique and concept store on Pindarou 19, Kolonaki, with young fashion selections mainly from Greek designers. Katerina Krommydaki emphasizes girlie style with a playful approach, whilst Katerina Alexandraki prefers bright colors and floral designs. At this eclectic store you can also find cloth toys in retro style, classic silver jewelry and contemporary designs in fabric, ideas for decorating, candles, and hand made soap in various shapes. tel. 210 3614545 www.facebook.com/punchi.pupunchi

Air Lounge bar & restaurant is situated on the 9th floor of Fresh Hotel, right in the busiest part of Athens, near the central market. Open from morning until late at night, with finger food, salads, sandwiches and a varied choice of cocktails. Enjoy the lounge in the evening at the a la carte restaurant with inspired cuisine and a marvelous view of the Acropolis. Theme nights are organized often with latin, disco, jazz music and popular djs or live music. You’ll love the unique cool, hip atmosphere. www.freshhotel.gr

Electra Roof Garden restaurant is the top choice in Plaka, the oldest and most picturesque neighborhood of Athens, easy to reach and utterly enjoyable, both for the breathtaking view and for the exclusive cuisine. The excellent flavors, the view and the service are the reason this remarkable restaurant has been awarded for four consecutive years with Toques d’ or & Greek cuisine awards. Definitely an aesthetic unforgettable experience. www.electrahotels.gr 

Gallo Nero all day cafe restaurant opened recently on the ground floor of Park hotel, on Alexandras Ave, right opposite the newly designed park of Pedion tou Areos. Memories from Tuscany await visitors in a warm atmosphere, with authentic Italian cuisine and Tuscan wine at reasonable prices. Italian chef Gianluca Barlucchi is the taste coordinator, using exclusively Tuscan ingredients from his native Siena. Mouth watering appetizers, homemade bruschetta, inspired pizza tastes, which extend to sweet variations, like pizza with fruit or chocolate, the chef’s signature plate. www.rbathenspark.com

New Taste restaurant at the recently inaugurated New Hotel on Filellinon street is not only a culinary but also an artistic experience. The impressive  decor includes old furniture creatively recycled, combined with ultramodern effects, which create a hip but warm atmosphere. Chef Steven Frost has created as simple but excellent menu based on Mediterranean cuisine with contemporary cooking and presentation. Most of the ingredients are organic and the bread comes in a wide variety, prepared daily on the spot. Some of the most popular choices are the white fish carpaccio, the burgers from wagyu beef and of course the delicious desserts, cheese cake, lemon pie,  home made ice cream and sorbets. www.yeshotels.gr

“Kapari” (Caper) on 22 Asklipiou str, is a small gourmet boutique, with selected tastes from all over Greece, mainly from small traditional producers. Olive oil from Crete and the Peleponnese, honey in rare varieties, a wide range of sweet and savory biscuits, sausages and smoked cheese from northern Greece, olives from Kalamata, freshly baked organic bread are some of the delicacies you can find here. Every day home made melitzanosalata (aubergine salad), hummus, taramosalata (fish roe dip) is delivered on the spot. tel. 211 0104240. facebook group  www.facebook.com/kaparh 

D for Delicious on Sina 62, Kolonaki, is a friendly, cozy food store full of wonderful tastes, both organic and delicatessen. Handmade pasta from Tuscany in fantastic variations, with truffles, wild mushrooms, salmon, saffron, black volcanic salt from Hawaii, dips and jams with the signature of Italian chef Moreno Cedroni, and delicious fresh tsoureki (sweet cake flavored with aromatic masticha), delivered daily. The specialties include wine from the island of Limnos, a variety of Cretan cheese and Grandma Wild’s addictive shortbread bites. The collection of organic and natural cosmetics and aromatherapy soaps is another interesting point. tel. 210 3602898 facebook group www.facebook.com/pages/D-for-Delicious/146950196778

“Pandesia” (Feast) delicatessen opened in 1997 and since then has made a name for itself, owing to the dedication and continuous  research of the owners, who are always discovering new gastronomic delights for their customers. Specializing in genuine tastes from many regions of Greece and also selections from other countries, new products and ideas, practical solutions for easy cooking at home. Gastronomic events are often organized, offering an occasion to meet the producers and learn more about culinary traditions. Herbal teas and coffee, an interesting selection of wines, sweet and savory tastes, wine accessories, for an all round Greek taste experience. Ag. Ioanni str.  23b, Agia Paraskevi. tel. 210 6017731 www.pandesia.gr

“Vanilia Kanela” (Vanilla Cinnamon) is a not only a gourmet delicatessen with an interesting range of products, but also a popular cafe, very near the Panormou metro station on L. Riankour 73. The decor includes traditional farming instruments, and many of the products are organic. A wide selection of aromatic herbs and spices, wild artichokes from the island of Tinos, dried mushrooms, homemade jams and preserves are some of the delightful ideas to savor. The wine cellar includes labels from the most famous vineyards of Greece. tel. 210 6925940 www.vaniliakanela.com  

“Vini” in Koukaki, Drakou 10, is the oldest beer pub in Athens, with an atmosphere reminiscent of English pubs, with rock and jazz music. The locale offers a wide range of barrel and bottled beers accompanied with carefully selected plates, from salads and appetizers to schnitzel and homemade burger. After dinner you can also taste your favorite whiskey, liqueur  or bourbon. Live music makes the evenings even more entertaining. tel. 210 9226225 facebook group www.facebook.com/pages/Vini/33887925327?sk=wall  

“Craft” , the only brew-restaurant in Greece is located in downtown Athens, on 205 Alexandras Ave and also in Halandri Central Square. Customers can actually watch the brewing process on the spot and taste the difference of freshly brewed beer in six excellent varieties: pilsner, red ale, smoked lager, Weiss, Athens lager and black lager. The special plate is hock and the menu includes, appetizers,  mixed grill, varieties of German sausages and salads. Relaxed and casual atmosphere, with music which gets livelier as the night wears on. www.craft.gr 

“Zythos” in Halandri and Faliro is popular with the young crowd, who enjoy the barrel beers and the excellent cuisine. Choose between fruit beers, Weiss, Trappist, black ale, lager or non alcoholic. Some of the special plates are salads with fresh vegetables and cheese, spicy pasta,  T bone steaks and Mexican burgers, fondue, spring rolls or jalapeno peppers. Cool and laid back atmosphere, ideal for meeting up with friends. www.zythos.gr

“James Joyce”  is a different type of Irish pub, situated in Monastiraki, on Astingos 12. The warm and comfortable environment, great music and the inspired menu have made it a favorite for locals and visitors to Athens. Enjoy some of the best draught beers in town, Irish and Scottish whiskeys, and specialties like tasty soups, crisp nachos, buffalo wings, Irish soda bread, fish and chips. Live events include 6 nations rugby for sport fans. Feel at home in this Irish managed pub, which combines traditional with contemporary atmosphere. www.jjoyceirishpubathens.com

Aristokratikon is one of the oldest chocolateries in Athens, a family business famous since 1928, considered the non plus ultra chocolate experience. Very near Syntagma, on Voulis 7, and also in Kifisia, the tasteful packaging competes with the remarkable taste and variety. Truffles and pralines, dried fruit, candies and marzipan, crunchy or creamy, designs for all seasons, made with high quality ingredients, each creation is a jewel to cherish aesthetically. www.aristokratikon.gr

Le Chocolat, with two shops near Syntagma,  Karageorgi Servias and Voulis 14, and Karageorgi Servias  3, and one in Kifisia, is a magic world for chocolate lovers, specializing in design and taste. Belgian chocolate, Michel Cluizel, Varlhona, artistic compositions and special ideas for birthdays, valentines, weddings. It is hard to choose among the many varieties: fresh creams, wafers, pralines with caramel, bitter moka, chocolate almond dragees. www.chocolat.com.gr

Troufa Chocolate Bar opened not so long ago in the suburb of Nea Erithrea, on Harilaou Trikoupi 146 and since then has made a name for itself. Beautifully wrapped handmade chocolates in flavors from around the world, which customers can actually watch in the making, before making their selection. Freshly made with carefully selected ingredients,  these utterly sublime chocolates are considered a veritable fashion/gourmet  statement. tel. 210 8000950 facebook group  www.facebook.com/pages/Troufa-Chocolate-Bar/175972592425271

Max Perry Chocolates, with 21 shops in Athens and one in Crete, is a high end chocolate boutique with exquisite taste. Try the mouthwatering ‘nouvelle’ (open chocolates filled with marzipan, fruit, or mousse), the melt in the mouth pralines, or the patisserie series based on chocolate variations : tsoureki (soft masticha flavored cake) filled with chocolate or chestnut and covered in white or bitter chocolate, the brownies, the brioches. Check out their avant garde fashion pastry event on http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7uzCEGeR8AA

www.maxperrychocolates.gr

Under the shadow of Acropolis Rock lies a petit, traditional, artisanal bakery, Takis,  that managed over the decades to spread it’s fame beyond the local boundaries and onto the national and even international levels. With cakes and pies to die for, old school Tsórek (tsoureki) and Simit (koulouri) and more varieties of bread than you would ever imagine,  this is a ‘must-visit’ place in order to reinstate what a bakery/ boulangerie/ bäkerei should look like.  Make a point of trying the tsoureki with wild cherry filling and the mouthwatering cappuccino muffins.  Misaraliotou 14, tel. 210 9230052

Evi bakery and patisserie, on Marasli str 19, in Kolonaki, is one of the oldest in Athens, and is considered a gourmet meeting point for freshly baked tsoureki (sweet bread with fragrant aroma of masticha), authentic baklava (wafer thin pastry filled with walnuts in thick syrup) and also savory bites, like the small peinirli (puffy pastry with cheese and ham) and a wide variety of  pies. Pastries and tarts, strawberry sorbet and delectable eclairs are some of the favorites. tel. 210 7241766

Take a break while walking through Thisio, and grab one of the delicacies from Dimou bakery on Poulopoulou str 17. Freshly baked bread in a wide range of varieties, savory bites, pies and sandwiches with a twist. Don’t miss the biscuits with brown sugar and cinnamon, the salty grissini and the memorable orange pie. Mini apple and cherry tarts, vanilla cakes and traditional Greek sweets for a quick snack or for accompanying a cup of coffee. tel. 210 3423780

Milk and rice pudding at Varsos is a delicacy many generations of Athenians have enjoyed over the years. A drive to Kifissia is an occasion to try the specialties of this family owned bakery and patisserie, famous for their brioche sandwiches, small pies in a variety of tastes, fresh yoghurt, butter cookies, pecan pie and crisp galatoboureko (thin pastry filled with a creamy milk mixture and dipped in light syrup). The cool garden is very popular in the summer months with residents of Kifissia, after a movie or for a morning coffee. www.varsos.gr tel. 210 8012472

F Zein Active offers a wide choice of outdoor activities, team action and adventure games, ranging from rafting, canyoning, trekking, kayaking, to mountain biking and camping trips. Highly skilled experts and focus on quality, are the highlights of this company, who are based in Karpenisi, and operates in various regions of Greece, including Arachova, Lake Plastira, the Nafpaktia mountains, Kalavryta, Ioannina and more. Activities can be arranged for one or more days, offering the opportunity to really enjoy the unique experience of natural beauty. www.active.com.gr

No Limits organizes excursions which combine outdoor activities with exploration of  the surrounding nature and local traditions. Mountains and rivers are the main locations for activities  which start from four different points of the country: Konitsa, Prespes, Grevena and Meteora. Expert guides share their knowledge and experience with nature lovers. Activities include rafting, mountain bike, climbing, canyoning, trekking, canoe, kayak, and touring by jeep. www.nolimits.com.gr

Trekking Hellas operates cultural and outdoor activities all over Greece, which include visiting Mt Olympus- the abode of the ancient Greek Gods-, the imposing Pindos mountain range, the unknown Agrafa villages mountain region, hiking in the paths of southern Peloponnese, walking off the beaten path on the island of the Cyclades. Kayak lovers will choose the calm waters of the Ionian sea or Santorini, and cycling fans will enjoy the spectacular routes of Central Greece or the Peloponnese. Activities for families offer the occasion to combine outdoor activities with interesting knowledge of Greek culture and history. www.trekking.gr

Public cafe and restaurant is on the top floor of the specialized department store for gadgets, computing, music and books and commands a magnificent view of the Parliament and Syntagma Square. Another is situated in Pireaus with a romantic view of the Pasalimani harbor. Natural elements and modern design combine with  selected tastes, which range from Florian coffee or pomegranate juice to homemade pies, cool salads, interesting sandwiches and delicious pasta. www.public.gr tel. 210 3239101

After browsing through the elegant Attica department store on central Panepistimiou 9, drop in at Bread and Butter on the top floor and enjoy a drink or a light snack, while you admire the view of Athens from this height. Freshly ground coffee, hot or cold tea in a variety of tastes, fruit juices, salads and pasta with a selected wine list, make for the perfect after shopping experience. tel. 210 3211114 www.citylink.gr

Hondos Center is the best place to buy all brands of cosmetics and also designer fashion and beauty accessories. Lingerie, clothing, ideas for the home, toys and much more. After shopping at the main store on Omonia square, visit the cafe-restaurant with a breath taking view of the Acropolis and Lycabettus, and enjoy the excellent Greek and Mediterranean cuisine with fresh ingredients and traditional recipes. Don’t miss the homemade desserts and mouth watering pies. Free internet access is also available in an special space. www.hondoscenter.gr

After shopping or before a movie, visitors to The Mall Athens take a break at the elegant Palmie Bistro on the 3rd floor to enjoy a coffee, snack or meal. This favorite hot spot in the north suburbs of Athens has earned the title of an oasis, owed to the decor with forest themes. Palmie bistro combines the avant garde design with excellent service, quality cuisine and reasonable prices. Fresh salads, tasty pasta dishes and much more attract customers to this cozy and casually chic locale.www.themallathens.gr www.palmiebistro.gr